The By The Way newsletter is a great way to keep Kentucky credit unions informed of the latest updates in governmental affairs, compliance and regulations, education and training.  In addition, By the Way highlights the difference credit unions are making on a daily basis.

League Updates

• President's Message
  
  
• Advocacy Update
  
  
• Top academic achievements honored at 2025 Southeast Management School
  
  
• New class of Certified Credit Union Executives emerges from SRCUS

From America's Credit Unions

• A running start for veterans—powered by credit unions
  
  
• Collections & Bankruptcy School 2025

Educational Opportunities

• Last Chance: Early Bird Registration for Vision 2025 Ends June 30!
  
  
• Supervisory Committee University
  
  
• Enhanced Financial Counseling Certification Program (FiCEP)
  
  
• 2025 Women's Leadership Conference
  
  
• Registration is now open for the 2025 SRCUS Directors' and Supervisory Committee Conference!
  
  
• Save the Date: 2026 Visionaries Retreat

Compliance Updates

• Small Business Lending Rule Delayed Again
  
  
• Reminder: Regulation CC Changes Effective July 1st
  
  
• Why Credit Unions are Choosing InfoSight360 and CU PolicyPro
  
  
• CFPB to Conduct Review of Loan Originator Compensation Rule

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President's Message

It's nice to see some wins!

We've passed through several important gates on the tax issue in Washington, D.C. The credit union tax status was not included in the initial House bill, and the Senate did not change that. The GENIUS Act passed without the unwanted and unwarranted addition of the Credit Card Competition Act language. It pays to be vigilant in Congress, and your helpful support, both financially and practically, really helped to capture these wins. We're not entirely out of the woods yet, but we're watching diligently to ensure nothing untoward happens.

More locally,  as you know, our friends at the Kentucky Bankers Association recently sued Members Choice Credit Union and the Boyd County Clerk over municipal deposits being held at the credit union. (Yes, they actually sued the Clerk, not just the credit union!)

In his ruling, the judge completely sided with the credit union, the county clerk, competition, and common sense by pointing out that the statutes clearly state the credit union can hold public deposits. The ruling, in part, reflected how common it is for public service organizations of all types, including law enforcement, firefighters, libraries, school systems, and others to utilize credit unions for safe, secure, dividend-rich depositories. Thank you for responding to our anonymous survey on that topic!

During the hearing, the judge pointed out that none of the KBA's 8 banks in Boyd county found it important enough to be named as a plaintiff in the lawsuit, or to show up for the hearing, and he questioned why the KBA waited four years after the accounts were opened to have an issue with it. 

The KBA has some more time to appeal the ruling, so we'll see what happens next. In the meantime, we've already begun meeting with state lawmakers regarding an anticipated push from the bankers next year to amend the rule to clearly outlaw our ability to accept public funds. 

Sincerely,
Jim Kasch

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Advocacy Update

Advocacy On Track 2025: A Growing Success Across Three States

This month, Kentucky’s Credit Unions—alongside our partners from the Ohio and Tennessee Credit Union Leagues—were proud to host nearly 200 credit union professionals in Louisville for our 3rd Annual Advocacy On Track event. That’s right—this event continues to gain momentum each year, and 2025 was no exception, with over 180 attendees representing all three states.

As with previous years, attendees enjoyed a warm welcome reception at the iconic Angel’s Envy Distillery, followed by a full day of high-impact programming and exciting racing action from the Finish Line Balcony at Churchill Downs.

The agenda featured three insightful panel discussions:

• Card Fraud & Interchange Reform: Exploring the growing risks and regulatory efforts surrounding card security.
• Protecting the Credit Union Tax Status: A strategic look at successful messaging and tactics in defending our movement.
• Federal Update from Washington: A deep dive into current legislative and regulatory developments affecting credit unions.

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors—American Share Insurance, VISA, Cincinnati FHLB, CBS, Velera, and Eltropy—this premier advocacy event remains completely free for member credit unions in Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee.

If you weren’t able to attend this year, don’t worry—we’re already gearing up for an even bigger event in 2026. Stay tuned for more details and mark your calendar!

Sincerely,
Kyle Hagerty, CUCE
SVP & Chief Advocacy Officer

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League Updates

 

Top academic achievements honored at 2025 Southeast Management School

Photo Caption: They’ve done the work, and it shows. Congratulations to the 2025 students recognized for academic distinction at Southeast Management School. The future of the credit union movement is in good hands!

 

One of the primary purposes of Southeast Management School is to prepare each student for a successful career of leadership in the credit union movement. To help accomplish this purpose and as a prerequisite for graduation from the three-year program, students take part in a range of individual and group projects that deepen their understanding of their credit union, the communities they serve, and the industry as a whole.

Outstanding achievements in these areas are recognized through a few annual awards, including Year 2 Project Best and Excellence Awards, Year 3 Project Best and Excellence Awards, CU Financial Simulation Awards, and Best SRCUS Debate Team.

The Southeastern Regional Credit Union School (SRCUS) congratulates this year’s recipients.

2nd Year Project Awards

Between their first and second year of school, rising second-year students work individually on research projects that delve into quantitative analysis of their respective credit unions, helping them gain a greater understanding of credit union operations, ratio reporting, and financial health and performance. The following recipients received top scores in their asset category.

Best 2nd Year Project (assets $590M+) Nestor Ramirez, Peach State FCU	Best 2nd Year Project (assets < $590M) Jessica Horton, Jack Daniel Employees’ CU
Excellence in 2nd Year Project (assets $590M+) Megan Paulk, Georgia's Own CU Michelle Shaffer, Y-12 FCU	Excellence in 2nd Year Project (assets < $590M) Brandon Pemberton, The CU for Robertson County Justin Callaway, Marshland CU

 

3rd Year Project Awards

Between their second and final year of school, rising third-year students work individually on research projects that delve into qualitative analysis as they assess the past, current, and future of their respective credit unions. This approach builds upon the last project, helping them sharpen their leadership mindset and strategy development skills. The following recipients received top scores in their asset category.

Best 3rd Year Project (assets $530M+) Eric Ham, Avadian CU	Best 3rd Year Project (assets < $530M) Christopher Kerrigan, Serve and Protect CU
Excellence in 3rd Year Project (assets $530M+) Christopher Jones, BayPort CU Elton Roshi, US Senate FCU	Excellence in 3rd Year Project (assets < $530M) Lynette Guillory, CSE FCU Elizabeth Orama, Neighbors United FCU

 

CU Financial Simulation Awards

The Credit Union Financial Simulation is an interactive learning experience aimed at helping third-year students understand how financial decisions impact the overall performance and health of a credit union. The following recipients received top scores in overall financial performance.

• Luke McGilvary, 1st Class CU
• Taylor Evans, Whitesville Community CU
• Amanda Youngblood, Access of Louisiana FCU
• Ryan Fowler, SAFE FCU
• Andrea Mercer, Nashville Firemen’s CU

SRCUS Debate Award

Each year, students engage in a structured debate on a key credit union industry issue, with second- and third-year students forming research-based teams. The formal debate is a highlight of the SRCUS program, and this year’s winning team was the 3rd Year Team!

• Summer Carter, Legacy Community FCU
• Chris Jones, BayPort CU
• Claire Jones, Associated CU
• Elton Roshi, US Senate FCU

Watch the recorded debate on SRCUS’ Facebook page.

Southeast Management School continues to foster the next generation of credit union leaders through a rigorous, hands-on curriculum that challenges students to think critically, work collaboratively, and lead strategically. SRCUS congratulates all this year’s award recipients and applauds their dedication to advancing the credit union movement. For more information about the program and future enrollment, visit www.srcus.org.

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New class of Certified Credit Union Executives emerges from SRCUS

The Southeastern Regional Credit Union School (SRCUS) is pleased to announce that 41 distinguished credit union executives graduated on June 20 from Southeast Management School after successful completion of the three-year program on the campus of the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia.

This year’s program also marked a milestone: the first graduating class to earn the Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation, powered by America’s Credit Unions. Following formal approval in June 2024, SRCUS integrated CCUE testing requirements into the curriculum—beginning with first-year students, while offering a summer testing opportunity to second-year participants and recent graduates. Those who successfully completed the cumulative exam earned both the CCUE credential and ACE Credits® toward future academic advancement.

In addition, SRCUS offered a special Alumni Program during the same week as this year’s Southeast Management School, inviting graduates from 2014 and later to return to campus. Through this dedicated track, 57 alumni completed the required coursework and cumulative testing to earn the CCUE designation alongside the 2025 graduating class.

“This year’s graduation marks an exciting milestone in the history of Southeast Management School,” said Brittani Champlin, SRCUS Executive Coordinator. “The introduction of the CCUE designation deepens the impact of the program and elevates what it means to be a graduate of SRCUS. We’re incredibly proud of the 2025 class and the alumni who returned to complete the designation—each one represents the future of strong, strategic leadership in the credit union movement.”

For over 50 years, Southeast Management School has trained graduates to tackle leadership challenges in the credit union industry. The curriculum enhances operational, managerial, and leadership skills through advanced academic instruction. Students apply this knowledge to strategic projects for their credit unions, addressing industry issues. They also develop debate and presentation skills, and a deep understanding of the credit union philosophy to contribute to their credit unions' success.

During the ceremony, which streamed live on Facebook, graduates heard reflections and words of inspiration respectively from 3rd and 2nd year class leaders, Marlena Gannon-Frament of Marine FCU and Justin Callaway of Marshland CU, as well as SRCUS Academic Advisor Dr. Craig Piercy.

“We come from different states and even different continents, roles, and backgrounds,” said Gannon-Frament. “But somehow in the middle of the projects, presentations, and coffees we became more than just classmates, we became a team… Let’s continue to be ethical leaders, fearless innovators, and unwavering champions of our members. The world needs exactly what we bring to the table, especially now.”

Callaway echoed Gannon-Frament’s sentiments while also thanking SRCUS staff and his second-year classmates for the chance to grow and deepen connections.”

“This week was a lot of opportunity to further cement that bond we started in year one,” said Callaway. “We appreciate our credit unions for allowing us the opportunity to come here and learn from some of the most well-respected and amazing individuals.”

Graduation from Southeast Management School is recognized throughout the credit union industry as a prestigious mark of achievement. Upon successful completion of the program, students earn their CCUE designation and receive a graduation diploma issued in collaboration with the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education. For more information on Southeast Management School, visit www.srcus.org/management.

Grouped by credit union association, the SRCUS Class of 2025 includes:

Carolinas Credit Union League (Dan Schline, President/CEO)

Casey Cuthill, Palmetto Citizens FCU, SC

Sarah Davis, Mountain CU, NC

Ryan Fowler, SAFE FCU, SC

Marlena Gannon-Frament, Marine FCU, NC

Elizabeth Orama, Neighbors United FCU, SC

Tawanaca Williams, SRP FCU, SC

 

Kentucky Credit Union League (Jim Kasch, President/CEO)

Taylor Evans, Whitesville Community CU, KY

 

League of Credit Unions & Affiliates (Samantha Beeler, President)

Kendra Blackburn, Georgia United CU, GA

Summer Carter, Legacy CU, AL

Keith Curtis, Associated CU, GA

Shania DiLuzio, Georgia's Own CU, GA

Leah Evans, Georgia's Own CU, GA

Eric Ham, Avadian CU, AL

Joanna Herring, The Wright CU, GA

Christopher Jones, BayPort CU, VA

Claire Jones, Associated CU, GA

Amber Meador, ValleyStar CU, GA

Emilee Rada, Georgia's Own CU, GA

Elton Roshi, United States Senate FCU, VA

Jazmyn Salgado, BOND Community FCU, GA

Delaney Sasser, Credit Union of Georgia, GA

Harrison Stafford, Georgia United CU, GA

Letha Stowe, Peach State FCU, GA

Alanna Sullivan, Listerhill CU, AL

 

Luminate (Louisiana Credit Unions) (Juan F. Ceballos, President/CEO)

Mike Cook, Ascension CU, LA

Lynette Guillory, CSE FCU, LA

Kristen Shambro, Centric FCU, LA

Logan Williams, CSE FCU, LA

Amanda Youngblood, Access of Louisiana FCU, LA

 

Mississippi Credit Union Association (Charles Elliott, President/CEO)

Dylan Mawhinney, Magnolia FCU, MS

 

Tennessee Credit Union League (Fred Robinson, President/CEO)

Trae Burcham, Memphis City Employees CU, TN

William Dunn, St. Thomas CU, TN

Jeff Gallaher, Tennessee Valley FCU, TN

Miranda Ingram, Enrichment FCU, TN

Andrea Mercer, Nashville Firemen's CU, TN

Suzanne Summerville, tnConnect CU, TN

 

Esteemed Students from Outside of the Southeast

Stacey Byrne, Russell Country FCU, MT

Laura Hausmann, United Savings CU, ND

Christopher Kerrigan, Serve and Protect CU, England *

Luke McGilvary, 1st Class CU, Scotland *

Daniel Peers, Enterprise CU Limited, England *

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A running start for veterans—powered by credit unions

Credit unions are uniquely equipped to serve military families and veterans. Nearly 25% of veterans want to start a small business—but many face barriers to accessing capital. 

In Kentucky, Abound Credit Union stepped in where others wouldn’t, helping a veteran launch a running store that’s now revitalizing the local community. 

🎥 Watch the story 

Military families using credit unions are nearly 3X more likely to say their institution puts people first. And they’re twice as likely to feel confident about accessing affordable loans. 

These outcomes are made possible by the credit union tax status—a critical part of their not-for-profit structure and mission to serve. 

As you consider H.R. 1 – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, we urge you to protect this tax status and preserve credit unions’ ability to support veterans, small businesses, and communities across the country. 

 

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Collections & Bankruptcy School 2025

September 15 - 18, 2025 Louisville, KY

Overview

Mitigate risk, maximize recovery for members.
Collections & Bankruptcy School equips credit union collections professionals with essential skills and knowledge to effectively manage a collections department, addressing challenges from delinquencies to bankruptcy. Beginning with foundational principles, the curriculum advances through best practices, legal considerations, and the finer points of department management.  

Discover the learning track designed for you.
Choose from two learning tracks to advance your skills, whatever your experience level. New to collections? Start with the Introduction track. More experienced? The Advanced track is for you.

Who should attend?

The Introduction track is best for collections staff with less than five years of experience. Compliance staff, internal auditors, and management needing to understand the big picture may also find this introductory course beneficial. The Advanced track is for collections managers and those who have completed the intro course, or those collectors with more than five years' working experience. 

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Last Chance: Early Bird Registration for Vision 2025 Ends June 30!

Time is running out to lock in the best rate for Vision 2025 – the Annual Meeting & Convention of Kentucky's Credit Unions, taking place August 13-15, 2025 at The Galt House in Louisville.

Early bird registration ends Sunday, June 30, and after that, rates will increase. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the premier event that brings together credit union professionals from across the state for inspiration, connection, and innovation.

This year’s theme – "Step Into the Spotlight" — celebrates the leaders, teams, and ideas shaping the future of credit unions. From our dynamic keynote speakers and breakout sessions to the red carpet awards banquet and vendor expo, Vision 2025 is designed to energize and empower.

Highlights include:

• Topgolf Networking Event – networking, competition, food and fun at Topgolf
• Opening Night – an exclusive welcome event for attendees and exhibitors
• National keynote speakers delivering bold ideas and practical insights
• Hollywood-Themed Awards Banquet – a glamorous night to recognize excellence
• Casino Night & Dueling Pianos – unforgettable fun and networking
• Breakout sessions focused on leadership, innovation, and industry trends
• Packed vendor hall connecting you with cutting-edge solutions

Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or a volunteer, Vision 2025 is your time to shine.

Register now to secure early bird pricing before it disappears!

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Supervisory Committee University

Dates: July 15 & July 22
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM ET (Each Day)
Educational Investment: $699 per credit union (unlimited attendees)

Join us for a two-part virtual training designed specifically for Supervisory Committee members who want to deepen their understanding of their critical role in credit union governance. Led by nationally recognized attorney and credit union expert David Reed of Reed & Jolly, PLLC, this live and interactive course will cover the essential knowledge, responsibilities, and best practices that every Supervisory Committee member needs to know.

Whether you’re new to the committee or looking for a refresher, this engaging and practical training will help you confidently fulfill your oversight duties, ensure compliance, and strengthen your credit union’s internal controls.

PART ONE: JULY 15
Roles and Responsibilities of the Supervisory Committee
•    Key functions and fiduciary duties
•    Ensuring compliance with regulations and internal policies
•    Monitoring and responding to member complaints

Regulatory Requirements and Compliance
•    Overview of regulatory agencies and key compliance areas
•    Importance of the annual audit and collaboration with external auditors
•    Understanding reporting requirements and timelines

PART TWO: JULY 22
Risk Management and Internal Controls
•    Identifying and assessing risk
•    Evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls
•    Safeguarding against fraud and promoting operational efficiency

Collaboration with Management and External Auditors
Building effective working relationships
•    Understanding the audit process
•    Maintaining independence and objectivity

This LIVE session offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with David Reed – bring your questions and take advantage of valuable group discussion. 

Can’t attend both days live? No problem. All registrants will receive access to the recorded sessions to keep as an ongoing resource – perfect for onboarding future committee members.

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Last Chance to Register for Enhanced Financial Counseling Certification Program (FiCEP)

The deadline to register is July 3rd

You’ve identified the need: MORE certified financial counselors.

Why? Because your team can see a better future for your members and the communities you serve. To help you reach your goals quicker, your League is opening registration for the 2025 Enhanced FiCEP fall class!

In partnership with Luminate (Louisiana Credit Union League), you can be ready to pass America’s Credit Unions’ certification exam with ease through the Enhanced Certified Financial Counselor Program.

Through this eight-course, you’ll gain access to supplemental webinars, study guides, instructor-led zoom check-ins, exam prep sessions, and much more! 

Registration closes July 3, 2025
Education Program: August 4, 2025 – October 9, 2025

Educational Investment: 
$824 per student with a PDF book
$865 per student with a physical book

Please note, we will be using the 6th edition of the textbook; Previous editions will be incompatible with the 6th edition exam.

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2025 Women's Leadership Conference

July 15-16, 2025 | Margaritaville | Nashville, TN

Join us for the TRGroup Women’s Leadership Conference, a two-day event dedicated to empowering, inspiring, and celebrating women in credit unions and all stages of life. This dynamic event brings together influential speakers, thought leaders, and trailblazers for insightful conversations, skill-building workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities.

 

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Registration is now open for the 2025 SRCUS Directors' and Supervisory Committee Conference!

This conference offers a valuable opportunity for your members to gain crucial insights, connect with peers, and engage in discussions on the key issues shaping the credit union landscape. This year's event will be held at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa from Sunday, August 3rd to Wednesday, August 6th.

The comprehensive agenda features a range of timely and relevant topics, including:

• Talent Management: Strategies to recruit, retain, mentor, and motivate young talent in a challenging labor market.   
• Member Engagement: Techniques to enhance customer interactions, build loyalty, and turn members into advocates.   
• Financial Performance: Methods for measuring a credit union's value proposition beyond profit, with a focus on member net worth and productivity.   
• Leadership Development: Building a positive workplace culture, managing staff effectively, and motivating teams.   
• Fraud Prevention: How to spot and stop fraud.   
• Strategic Planning: Achieving long-term success through effective leadership and strategy.   
• Habit Formation: Developing routines to maximize time and energy, both personally and professionally.   
• Board Governance: Preparing boards for the future with proactive and agile governance strategies.   
• Risk Management: Understanding emerging threats and implementing effective oversight strategies.   
• Younger Members: Strategies for winning the hearts, minds, and wallets of the under-25 consumer.  

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Save the Date: 2026 Visionaries Retreat

January 20-23, 2026 | Hawks Cay Resort | Duck Key, FL

Get ready for an exclusive, unforgettable experience!

Join credit union leaders from Kentucky and Ohio at the stunning Hawks Cay Resort for a retreat designed to spark innovation, leadership, and collaboration.

Registration: $999
(Payment option available in January 2026 to align with your budget.)

Event Highlights:

• Premier Location: Recharge and connect in the serene beauty of the Florida Keys at Hawks Cay Resort.
• Strategic Collaboration: For the first time, we’re co-marketing with the Ohio Credit Union League – expanding your network and forging new partnerships.
• Private Board Rooms: Planning ahead? We’ve reserved boardrooms at Hawks Cay exclusively for credit unions who want to hold strategic or private meetings during the retreat.

Who Should Attend:

• This retreat is designed for visionary credit union leaders, including:
  CEOs and C-suite executives
• Senior managers and decision-makers

Mark your calendar – you won't want to miss it!

More details coming Summer 2025!
 

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